Travel kit for the long journey

WEEKS after the Scottish Government launched its £6million baby box scheme, Highland campaigners have announced they will produce their own version.

Caithness Health Action Team took the decision after restrictions were introduced on giving birth at Wick’s Caithness General Hospital. It led to more expectant mothers having to make the 100-mile journey to the maternity ward at Raigmore Hospital.

The campaign group’s secretary, Nicola Sinclair, said that the ‘100 Mile Helper’ kits for women – which will include maps, blankets, pillows and overnight essentials – was a ‘response to all the stories we’ve been receiving about fraught, stressful and even dangerous journeys down the A9, often in adverse weather’.

The group hopes to have the kits ready for distribution by spring.